With no limit on the number of tickets per customer, and 13,500 in the virtual queue for about 7000 tickets, demand was described as ‘‘extremely strong’’.
Department of Conservation heritage and visitors director Cat Wilson said it was intense from the moment bookings opened.
‘‘The Milford Track remains one of New Zealand’s most sought-after experiences and we saw extraordinary demand again this morning,’’ she said yesterday.
‘‘Despite the very high traffic volumes, the booking platform performed well and people moved steadily through the queue.’’
Most Milford Track departures sold out within about 30 minutes, similar to previous years.
The booking system has been upgraded in recent years after it crashed a few years ago. Users are now put into a ‘‘waiting lobby’’ before bookings go live at 9.30am. At that time, everyone in the lobby is randomly assigned a place in the queue, preventing the need to log in hours early.
Ms Wilson said while the most popular dates booked quickly, there were still many opportunities for people to experience New Zealand’s outdoor places across the wider visitor network.
‘‘We encourage people to look at off-peak periods, alternative Great Walks and other incredible tracks and huts around the country.
‘‘There are still fantastic experiences available outside the busiest summer months and people should also continue checking the booking system as cancellations and changes do occur throughout the season.’’
The opening follows strong demand on Tuesday for huts and lodges on the Paparoa Track on the West Coast, when thousands of people logged on to secure spots for the 2026-27 season.
Ms Wilson said the continued enthusiasm reflected how much people valued spending time in nature.
‘‘It’s fantastic to see so many people planning adventures and getting excited about some of Aotearoa’s most special places.’’
Commercial operators are not allowed to use Doc huts, but there are some privately owned huts operated by Ultimate Hikes, which are booked through their own system.
The cost to walk the Milford Track is $152 per night for international adults and $106 per night for New Zealand residents. The walk takes a total of three nights.
Mandatory boat transport to and from the track adds about $150-$300 per person.
Bookings for the Abel Tasman Coast Track opens today and the Routeburn Track tomorrow.
